On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Denmark on the 165th anniversary of the adoption of your constitution.

On June 5, 1849, King Frederik VII signed Denmark’s free constitution and broke voluntarily with almost 200 years of absolutism. King Frederik was a champion of liberty, and his words continue to inspire today: “Personal liberty shall be inviolable…no Danish subject shall, in any manner whatsoever, be deprived of his liberty because of his political or religious convictions or because of his descent.”

These are the values that bind Denmark and the United States as partners for peace, prosperity, and democracy. As members of the NATO Alliance, our cooperation and shared vision for our common defense continues to unite our nations.

As you celebrate your national day with family and friends, the United States stands with you as a steadfast partner and friend. I wish all Danish people continued peace and prosperity in the coming year.